THE MAYORAL ELECTION.

A deputation of gentlemen waited on Mr Councillor Ayers last week. Mr Andrews introduced the deputation, saying—Mr Ayers *. I am honored in being selected bjfc number of gentlemen, ratepayers of this city, to represent themin presenting to you this -requisition, asking that you wfll afldw yourself to be nominated as Mayor of this city for tiie ensuing year. The requisition bears the names of 513 ratepayers, signed by very many gentlemen of mark, influence, and distinction in this city. I think that you, sir, should be as proud in receiving as I am in presenting this token of their confidence in you and in their respect towards you. I trust on their behalf that you wiß give mc an assurance that this step .of theirs meets with your approval, and that you wfll now comply with their request. Mr Atebs, in reply, said—Mr Andrews and gentlemen, I cannot but feel very highly gratified at the reception of such an influential and nnmerously signed requisition, -representing as it does afl classes .of the conimunity. And I cannot help thinking that such a manifestation of public confidence and esteem should stimulate some of our younger citizens to enter the arena of public life and aspire to positions of public trust.. I can assure you, gentiemen, when first entering pubßc life as a candidate for the City Council, I had not

the remotest thought of the honor which you n>w s**eV to confer upon mc, but it shows mt' more than ever that when public servicf a are 'faithfuUr rendered they are not lofcfc sight of by those in whose interest they v. er.- performed. Of this lam pleaded to say. I have had mnny evidences. Th-* fact of my p"ss>ssing, as X befleve I do,'the -*ntire >xr fidence of the Council, the consideration of my position as senior member, the long period of my municipal service, and the evidences, such as they are, of my devotion to the pubßc interest, have had weight with you aB; nor do I doubt that these considerations have due force with the ratepayers generally. I therefore, gentlemen, place myself freely and confidently in your hands, and should you do m-* the honor to elect mc to the high po.-i'ion of Mayor of this city for the ensuing year you may rely on my impartiality, diligence and care in the fulfilment of the duties pertaining thereto. Gentlemen, again I thsnk you moat sincerely. The requisition which was presented to Mr C. P. Hulbert, asking him to permit himself to be nominated for. the Civic Chair, has been acceded to by that gentleman. He expresses a very humble opinion of his ability to discharge the duties of the office, but it is extremely probable the ratepayers will prove that they entertain a better opinion of hia fitness than he does .himself. Even if no other candidate comes forward we have now a choice. .